Harvester Propulsion Speed Control via Predictive Crop Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing harvesting machines face challenges in accurately predicting crop throughput, leading to under- or overloading of processing devices and blockages due to delayed adjustments in propulsion speed, as existing methods rely solely on non-contact sensors without sufficient calibration and have long response times.
Innovation Solution
A harvesting machine equipped with a controller that uses data from an anticipatory, non-contact detection system, including a sensor to record actual mass throughput variables, compares these with expected values for continuous feedback to adjust propulsion speed, ensuring optimal mass throughput maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If non-contact sensors are used for anticipatory detection of crop throughput, then the prediction of mass throughput is improved, but the accuracy is insufficient due to lack of calibration with actual measured values
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously compares the predicted mass throughput from non-contact sensors with the actual mass throughput measured by onboard sensors. The difference (deviation) is fed back to the controller, which uses this feedback to correct the propulsion speed prediction, thereby improving both accuracy and reliability of the mass throughput prediction over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The non-contact sensors perform anticipatory detection of crop standing in front of the harvesting machine, providing predicted mass throughput values before the crop actually enters the processing area. This preliminary action allows the controller to prepare appropriate propulsion speed adjustments in advance, improving response time and accuracy.
2Reliability
If propulsion speed is adjusted based on delayed sensor measurements from onboard sensors, then the actual mass throughput is monitored, but the response time is too slow leading to under- or overloading of processing devices
Solution Approach 1:
The non-contact sensors detect crop parameters (height, density, moisture) in advance before the crop reaches the onboard sensors. This preliminary detection provides predicted mass throughput values that allow the controller to anticipate changes and adjust propulsion speed before the actual changes occur, eliminating the time delay inherent in using only onboard sensor data.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the deviation between predicted and actual mass throughput is continuously monitored and used to correct propulsion speed predictions. This feedback loop improves the responsiveness and accuracy of propulsion speed adjustments, preventing under- or overloading of processing devices.
3Length of stationary object
If non-contact sensors are used for anticipatory detection, then the detection range is extended, but the measurement precision is insufficient without calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses feedback from onboard sensors that measure actual crop throughput to continuously calibrate and correct the predictions from non-contact sensors. This feedback mechanism bridges the gap between the extended detection range of non-contact sensors and the need for precise measurements, maintaining accuracy while benefiting from the longer detection range.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary that combines data from both non-contact sensors (providing extended detection range) and onboard sensors (providing precise measurements). By processing and reconciling data from both sources, the system achieves both extended detection range and measurement precision simultaneously.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for more direct and timely adjustments to propulsion speed, improving the accuracy and responsiveness of crop processing, reducing the likelihood of blockages and optimizing machine performance.
Implementation Method 1
distance meter with a transmitter for successively applying electromagnetic waves to a crop standing in front of the harvesting machine, a receiver for receiving waves reflected from the crop stock
Implementation Method 2
receiver for receiving waves reflected from the crop stock
Implementation Method 3
evaluation unit which uses the propagation times and/or amplitudes of the received waves in order to calculate data on the basis of which an expected mass throughput in the harvesting machine can be evaluated
Data Source
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AI summary
A harvesting machine (10) comprises propulsion means (14) for moving the harvesting machine (10) across a field; an arrangement (90) for predictive, non-contact detection of the crop stand (96) in front of the harvesting machine (10) and for providing data regarding the expected mass throughput in the harvesting machine (10); a control unit (80) which automatically controls the forward speed (v) of the harvesting machine (10) taking into account the expected mass throughput in order to maintain a desired mass throughput value; and a sensor (86) for detecting a quantity dependent on the mass throughput. The control unit (80) compares the output value of the sensor (86) with an expected value dependent on the mass throughput and uses the result of the comparison as feedback for determining the forward speed (v).